The cross

Read > Luke 23:26-43

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing” (v. 34).

Today, crosses are worn by some believers and placed on steeples of churches as a symbol of Christianity. But in the first century, the sight of a cross elicited gasps of horror from those who saw it. Invented by the Phoenicians and perfected by the Romans, crucifixion was reserved for the worst of criminals. The criminal was nailed there until his death by asphyxiation, and which could take up to a few days. It was so horrible that no Roman citizen could be condemned to such a death.

The sinless Jesus was led to a cross to die. The women cried, the religious leaders scoffed, curious onlookers watched, and the Roman soldiers gambled. But two people could not look indifferently at what happened – the thieves who hung on crosses beside Jesus. Soon they would meet the same end. But they held very different views of the Saviour. The first joined those who sneered at Jesus, asking Him to save them as well as Himself. The other recognised that Jesus was innocent and that He should not be crucified. He said to the Lord, “Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom” (Luke 23:42). Despite His own unbearable pain, Jesus told this penitent thief, “I assure you, today you will be with Me in paradise” (v. 43).

Jesus asked His Father to forgive all those who were there at the cross. And the thief definitely benefited from the prayer that day. He admitted his sin and received divine forgiveness.

It doesn’t matter how many crosses you hang on yourself or in your home that profess you’re a Christian. What matters is your relationship with Jesus. He’s the only One who can save you. – C. P. Hia

More >

·         1 Cor. 1:18-19, 26-31

·         Galatians 6:14

·         Hebrews 12:2, 3

Next >

Reflect on God’s love in sending Jesus to the cross for you. Who have you found it difficult to forgive? Take the initiative to call him or her today and re-establish your relationship.